Fotoalbum met 26 cartes-de-visite van voornamelijk rooms-katholieke geestelijken c. 1860 - 1900

This photo album, compiled by various makers, contains 26 cartes-de-visite, mainly of Roman Catholic clergy. These small photographic cards gained popularity in the mid-19th century as affordable keepsakes. In a time of rapid social change and increasing secularization, the church maintained a powerful role. Consider how such a collection served as a personal archive, reflecting both religious devotion and social networks. The clergy, predominantly men, held positions of authority, their portraits embodying both spiritual and social power. How does this curated collection shape the narrative of faith, power, and representation? These images offer a glimpse into the visual culture and social dynamics of the era. While seemingly straightforward, this album encapsulates complex relationships between faith, identity, and the act of collecting.